Biden and Netanyahu Discuss Israeli Military Actions in Gaza

President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in a crucial discussion on Monday as Israel’s military issued a warning to civilians in the southern Gazan city of Rafah. The warning urged residents to evacuate certain parts of the city, where over a million people are currently seeking shelter.

The conversation between Biden and Netanyahu took place following Israeli Defense Forces conducting air strikes early Monday morning. The warning to civilians has sparked speculation that Israel may be preparing for long-anticipated ground operations in the region.

The White House has expressed its opposition to a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government. A spokesperson from the White House National Security Council confirmed the call between the two leaders, stating that the US has made its stance clear on the matter.

In addition to speaking with Netanyahu, President Biden is scheduled to meet with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the ongoing conflict. Cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the US and European Union, have hit a roadblock in recent days.

The talks stalled over Hamas’ insistence on a permanent truce, a condition that Netanyahu has been hesitant to agree to as he aims to eradicate Hamas from Gaza. The situation escalated on Sunday when Hamas launched a rocket barrage at the border crossing of Kerem Shalom, resulting in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers.

As Israel continues to weigh its options, large numbers of civilians have begun to evacuate Rafah in response to the warning issued by the Israeli military. However, the timeline for the complete evacuation remains uncertain, with Israeli officials suggesting it could take weeks.

The Israel Defense Forces have emphasized their commitment to targeting terrorist organizations in the region, urging residents of eastern Rafah to relocate to a designated humanitarian area near Khan Younis. Despite international concerns about potential civilian casualties, Israel remains determined to address the threat posed by Hamas in Gaza.

The situation in Rafah underscores the complex and volatile nature of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with both sides facing pressure to find a resolution that ensures the safety and security of civilians in the region.